Today marked a significant milestone for the Mmaphashalala community and the Government of Botswana with the launch of a transformative infrastructure project—the groundbreaking of the Jindal Capricorn Road. This ambitious 26-kilometre road will create a critical link between the A1 Road, Mmaphashalala Village, the Mmamabula Coal Mine, and the adjacent power station, signifying a new era of development, mobility, and energy infrastructure in the region.
The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by the Assistant Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Hon. Keoagile Atamelang, who hailed the project as a symbol of Botswana’s unwavering commitment to inclusive growth and national development. The road, which is fully funded by Jindal Africa at a cost of BWP 1.7 billion, stands as a testament to the power of strategic public-private partnerships.
“This road is more than just a stretch of tarmac—it is a vision made real, a lifeline for communities, and a bridge to our energy future,” said Hon. Atamelang. “The Jindal Capricorn Road reflects our government’s strategic priorities to build resilient infrastructure, enable industrial growth, and enhance the lives of our people.”
The Jindal Capricorn Road will directly benefit local residents by improving access between Mmaphashalala and key industrial hubs, including the Mmamabula Coal Mine and the power station. The improved road network will not only reduce travel time and transportation costs but also catalyze investment opportunities in the surrounding areas.
For Mmaphashalala villagers and surrounding communities, the project offers the promise of better connectivity, access to jobs, and participation in the expanding energy sector. The road is also expected to facilitate the efficient movement of coal and other resources, enhancing the operational capacity of the Mmamabula energy complex.
As Botswana continues to prioritize energy security and economic diversification, the Capricorn Road plays a pivotal role in connecting critical infrastructure nodes. With Jindal Africa’s continued investment in the Mmamabula coal-to-energy value chain, the new road will provide a dependable logistics corridor that strengthens national energy resilience.
This development comes at a time when the country is seeking to balance industrial expansion with sustainable development. The Capricorn Road supports that goal by fostering economic empowerment while laying the foundation for long-term prosperity.
The collaboration between the Government of Botswana and Jindal Africa signals a shared vision for progress—a future where modern infrastructure empowers communities and supports national goals. The BWP 1.7 billion investment in road infrastructure is a bold statement of intent, aligning with Vision 2036 and Botswana’s commitment to improving quality of life through inclusive development.
As construction begins, the Jindal Capricorn Road stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when vision, investment, and partnership come together in service of the people. The future for Mmaphashalala and its surrounding areas is now firmly on the map—connected, empowered, and heading toward prosperity.
